Ederson Lopes (white) is coming off a hat trick in Bradenton's last game
The Bradenton Academics at IMG Academies are one of nearly 70 teams from around the country representing the United Soccer Leagues in the Premier Development League, which mainly consists of college-age players. The league will run throughout the summer.
With only four games remaining in the regular season, the Bradenton Academics’ July 4th weekend away games will help decide whether the team can retain its current perch atop the Southeast Division.
The Academics (8-1-3) will face the Nashville Metros (2-6-4) at 8 p.m. tonight, and will then travel to Atlanta for a match against the Blackhawks (2-8-1) at 5 p.m. Sunday. Bradenton has already beaten both teams this season, with a 4-0 win against Nashville on May 7 and a 3-1 win over Atlanta on May 23.
Bradenton currently possesses a six-game unbeaten streak, outscoring opponents 13-2 during that span. The Academics hold a two-point lead over the Mississippi Brilla. Forward Zak Boggs will look to add to his season scoring tally of nine goals, which ties him for 5th in the PDL.
